The UFC is gearing up to deliver yet another thrilling matchup for fans. After hosting two major PPV events featuring fan-favorite fights, the promotion is now planning an exciting flyweight showdown between Steve Erceg and Asu Almabayev for March 1st. This bout holds significant importance for both fighters, as a victory could bring them closer to a shot at the flyweight title.
Erceg, a former title challenger, is coming off two consecutive losses, holding a professional record of 12-3-0. He faced Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC Flyweight Championship on May 4, 2024, at UFC 301, where he lost via unanimous decision. Later, he took on Kai Kara-France at UFC 305 on August 18, 2024, suffering a first-round technical knockout defeat.
On the other hand, Asu Almabayev, with an impressive record of 21-2-0, is a rising star in the UFC and a former Interim M-1 Global Flyweight Champion. Both fighters boast immense talent and remarkable records, making their showdown a highly anticipated matchup that will generate buzz among fans.
Steve Erceg vs Asu Almabayev is set for March 1st.
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) January 2, 2025
BIG TIME FIGHT AT FLYWEIGHT! pic.twitter.com/0bRwSFGWfP
Asu Almabayev Sets Sights on Alexandre Pantoja’s Flyweight Crown
Almabayev extended his winning streak to 17 with a unanimous decision victory over Matheus Nicolau at UFC Fight Night 245 in Las Vegas. Almabayev earned 29-28 scores, while Nicolau suffered another setback.
Although Almabayev dominated with over 26 minutes of control time in his last three decision wins, he secured only one takedown against Nicolau, a sharp contrast to the 15 takedowns he landed in his previous two fights. With this win, the Kazakh Fighter aimed for the title shot, and in the post-fight interview, he said,
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“I will come back home, and we’ll watch the fight again. We need to learn all the time. Give me one chance for the belt (against Alexandre Pantoja).”
Almabayev expressed his satisfaction with the victory, acknowledging the challenges of winning at this level, as every opponent puts in immense effort to compete. With another victory in his next fight, he is poised to secure a well-deserved title shot.
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